BEIJING, June 6 (Xinhua) -- President Xi Jinping on Friday called for unity and a greater contribution from Chinese nationals overseas to realize national rejuvenation.

Xi made the remarks at the 7th Conference for Friendship of Overseas Chinese Associations attended by more than 500 representatives from 119 countries and regions.

As long as the overseas Chinese are united, they can play an irreplaceable role in realizing the Chinese dream of national rejuvenation as they are patriotic and rich in capital, talent, resources and business connections, Xi said.

He called for promotion of Chinese culture, the common gene of the nation, and enhancing mutual understanding between the Chinese people and the world to create a sound environment for development.

The dreams that the Chinese people are pursuing are in common with the pursuit of happiness by people all over the world, Xi said.

He encouraged overseas Chinese to better integrate themselves into, and bring more benefits to, local communities and promote world peace and development.